By james art Johnson Controls announced the grand opening of its new innovation center, the Warren Johnson Engineering Lab. The new 109,000 square foot facility is home to approximately 250 employees dedicated to advancing smart building technologies and sustainable solutions.
The newly completed facility marks an important milestone for the company, demonstrating its commitment to innovation, sustainability and the Milwaukee metro community. The engineering facility focuses on hardware and software engineering, including the OpenBlue suite of digital solutions, building automation systems and controls, and materials testing.
“By providing a dedicated space for experimentation and collaboration, we are equipping our engineering team with the tools and environment they need to create innovative construction solutions here in the Milwaukee community,” said George Oliver, Johnson Chairman and CEO Controls. “Through their work, we will accelerate the development of new technologies that improve the efficiency, safety and sustainability of buildings and meet the changing needs of our customers and the industry.”
Located across from the current Johnson Controls campus in Glendale, Wisconsin, the facility is designed to meet the unique engineering and testing needs of today while remaining flexible enough to accommodate future upgrades. Modern design encourages cross-team planning and the exchange of ideas, providing a collaborative environment that drives innovation.
It is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and resources that will enable Johnson Controls teams to develop and test the next generation of building management systems. Some of the key features include:
- Advanced hardware and software integration testing facilities;
- Cutting edge AI and machine learning tools to develop smart building solutions; and
- Collaborative workspaces designed to encourage creativity and teamwork.
In keeping with Johnson Controls’ commitment to sustainability, the new facility also incorporates low-impact development practices, including Johnson Controls equipment, stormwater retention, EV charging stations and technologies focused on efficiency and improved air filtration. The facility also incorporates sustainable construction methods, such as reducing carbon through building reuse and minimizing construction waste.
Johnson Controls and Weas Development collaborated with Mortenson Construction, Eppstein Uhen Architects (EUA) and CBRE Global Commercial Real Estate Services to bring this project to life. The grand opening event marked this milestone and highlighted the impact of the new facility on the local community and wider industry.